Target’s approach to sustainable water management

Target, Strategic Partner of Global Fashion Agenda recently announced a freshwater stewardship approach. Around the world, clean water sources are disappearing at an alarming rate, which is why Target is implementing a sustainable approach to its water management to ensure a more thoughtful use of resources. Created in partnership with World Wildlife Fund(WWF) and designed to help them deliver on the UNSustainable Development Goals, this approach will address how Target can improve water quality, optimise water efficiency and increase access to clean water.

It’s based on a simple, powerful belief:

“At Target, we believe that clean, drinkable water and sanitation are human rights and should be accessible for all. Healthy ecosystems and sustainable water management are essential in the delivery of these basic rights. Water is important to the success of our business operations, from our supply chains to our stores and the communities we operate in. We will focus our freshwater stewardship efforts in areas and on issues where our influence and support can help deliver the greatest impact.”

“With operations in nearly 50 countries, Target shares the responsibility of tackling environmental issues in the communities where we do business,” said John Mulligan, executive vice president and COO of Target. “Our freshwater approach is one way we’re putting the needs of people, communities and the planet at the heart of how we work today, to help build a better tomorrow.”

Target used WWF’s water risk assessment to review its water use reduction efforts across its manufacturing supply chain, stores and distribution facilities. This helped Target develop a holistic approach that acknowledges water as part of a bigger global system of megatrends.